Are you trying to figure out if you need to ship a car cross country?
The answer to that question is a definite yes! What many people may not realize, though, is that there are many mistakes you can make that will lead to your car getting dinged up, delayed, and more.
Read on to improve your shipping cars cross country experience!
Not Doing Enough Research
Not doing enough research is a common mistake made when shipping cars cross country. People may underestimate the complexity and nuances of the process, leading to costly mistakes. Without proper research, one may not be aware of the nuances of transporting a car from one state to another.
Results from hastily made decisions may include but are not limited to, shipping delays or having an inexperienced transport company chosen for the move. To prevent these issues from arising, research is key.
Start by checking the cost of transport companies and reading customer reviews and ratings to verify the quality of their service. Before selecting transportation services, contact companies to ask questions and negotiate prices.
Leaving Personal Items in the Car
It is a common mistake to leave personal items in the car when shipping cars cross country. Often people are unaware of the risk they are taking with the important items they leave inside the car. If the car is stolen or broken into, all these items can be stolen or damaged.
To avoid these dangerous scenarios, it is important to empty the car of all personal items. Store important items either at the beginning or ending destination of the car’s transport. If pieces of personal property are small enough to be stored in the glove compartment or trunk, take them out before the car is picked up.
Not Preparing the Car Sufficiently
Not properly preparing your car for a long-distance move is a common mistake that can cost time, money, and even safety. To ensure the best possible outcome, it is important to take the time to get your car into the best possible condition before shipping.
Start by ensuring that the oil, fluids, and tires are all topped off and in good shape. Make sure to top off the gas tank, as well, so that the vehicle can be driven onto the car transporter and off without issue. A thorough check of the vehicle should be done before shipping to determine whether or not any repairs are needed.
Not Having the Correct Documentation
Not having the correct car shipping documents is a common mistake when it comes to shipping cars cross country. It is crucial to make sure that you have the right paperwork filled out and with you when it comes time to transport your car.
Make sure to have your title and registration on hand, both of which must have accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, you may need to provide a valid driver’s license, a bill of sale, and current and valid proof of insurance.
You will also need to provide proof of identification if you are sending the car to another state. To help steer clear of these issues, be sure to double-check all of your documents for accuracy and completeness prior to transporting your car. That way, you can be sure that your car will get to its destination safely and smoothly.
Paying Too Much
When shipping cars cross country, one of the most common mistakes people make is paying too much. It’s important to shop around to find the most reliable yet affordable car transport services.
Make sure to get written quotes from several different companies and compare them based on their services, cost, and availability. Don’t be drawn in by too-good-to-be-true offers, as these may be scams. Reputable companies should never ask for payment in full before your vehicle is picked up or shipped.
Get signed written contracts and full refunds in case something happens along the way. By taking all of these steps, you can avoid paying too much for shipping your car cross country.
Not Getting Insurance
One common mistake that people make when shipping cars cross country is not getting insurance. Not getting insurance for shipping cars is a big risk, as if anything were to happen to your car during transport, there would be no guarantee that you could be compensated for the damages or loss. Therefore, it is essential to take the necessary steps to protect your car before it is shipped.
You need to make sure that you are purchasing quality car insurance. You should research all the different insurance providers and their policies to make sure that you are getting the best rate and the most comprehensive coverage.
Not Recording Any Damage
Not recording any damage before shipping a car cross country is a common mistake that should be avoided at all costs. This is important as any pre-existing damage prior to the start of shipping a vehicle will not be covered by the insurance policy.
To ensure that no damage is missed, it is recommended to first take pictures of your car prior to loading it on the truck, looking out for any scratches, dents, or any other signs of damage. Additionally, inspectors should also be on-site to visually inspect the car, and the documentation should be signed and witnessed by those who are witnessing the inspection.
Doing so will ensure that there is a record of any damage that is in place before shipping the car. Finally, it is important to have the inspector note any damages in writing. This is key, as this record serves as evidence that the damages existed before the car was loaded for transport – making sure it is covered by the insurance in case of any further damages.
Not Being Available When Your Car Is Picked Up and Delivered
One of the most common mistakes when shipping a car cross country is not being available when the car is picked up or delivered. Shippers need easy access to your car, and you need to make sure you provide them with the right information. Before arranging a car shipment, it is important to make sure that you are available when the car is picked up and delivered.
If you will not be home, arrange for someone else to be there to show identification and sign the necessary documents. Also, be sure to provide the correct pickup and delivery address to the shipping company. To reduce the chance of being unavailable when your car is picked up and delivered, plan your shipment well in advance and have everything ready before the scheduled pickup.
Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Cars Cross Country
Proper research and preparation can go a long way in avoiding common mistakes when shipping cars cross country. Be sure to research carriers, obtain insurance, read contracts, and document everything.
If you follow these steps, you will be one step ahead of the game. Utilize a reliable auto transport company to safely and efficiently ship your car, and you can rest assured that your vehicle will arrive in one piece.
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